"What I have realized is that my true life dream above all things was to spread peace and love as far as possible through music."

Performing at the Super Bowl, Coachella and filming for Bradley Cooper's A Star Is Born remake, Lady Gaga has had quite a busy 2017.

After production wrapped a couple weeks ago, Gaga decided to stay off the grid (minus her appearance at Starbucks) – her close friend, Sonja Durham, passed away from cancer last month. "I don't know how to put a price on a friendship. I'm not even sure how you can assess the size of its meaning, only really your heart truly knows and it's too special for words," she said at the time.

Now that the pop star has had a moment to collect her thoughts, she's sharing them.

In a new post on Instagram, Gaga said she was eternally grateful for all the love and support from her fans.

"Just wanted to say a loving thank you to monsters and fans of @sonjad7777 all over the world. I've been resting since I wrapped filming, and have begun to process even further all that has taken place," she said. "I want to say of all the things you have been there for me and my family and friends for, this one really left me speechless while also taking me by surprise. What I have realized is that my true life dream above all things was to spread peace and love as far as possible through music; and the compassion you have shown me, Sonja's husband Andre, her family and her friends is a miracle. And I know it was her hope while she was battling cancer to tell her story and to be an example of bravery to the world. Thank you for keeping that community in tact, not just for me, for yourself, or for sonja, but thank you for the example of kindness you show to the world. It is not how many followers you have, how skinny or beautiful by other peoples standards that matters. Truly it's the best parts of you on the inside that you choose generously to share with your sister or brother that makes you beautiful. That's what counts. That is your legacy. That is how you leave your mark. Transferring your positive energy to those around you, and watching it multiply."